Boy found in middle of Gratiot in protective custody

Police initially did not know the name of this boy seen running in the middle of Gratiot in Mount Clemens. Acting on a tip, police reached his mother and are investigating. (Photo submitted by Macomb County’s Sheriff’s Office)

A 5-year-old boy from Clinton Township found running in the middle of Gratiot Avenue at approximately 2 a.m. Saturday remained in protective custody as police continued to investigate the incident.

A motorist pulled over after spotting the boy on Gratiot near Euclid Street in Mount Clemens, Macomb County Sheriff’s officials said. That driver called police and kept the boy close until police arrived.

When Sheriff’s deputies spoke to the boy, he wouldn’t talk. Police estimated he was about 4 years old and issued a public alert through the news media by providing his description and photograph, hoping someone would recognize him or have information about why he was outside alone at that time.

Police got a tip that led them to the boy’s home approximately one-half mile from where he was running in the street.

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Macomb Sheriff Anthony Wickersham said the boy pushed or kicked the screen of a bedroom window in order to climb outside.

Deputies went to the home in the northern part of Clinton Township at 10 a.m., but the boy’s parents thought he was still sleeping.

“They didn’t realize he had left the house,” Wickersham said.

Macomb County Child Protective Services took temporary custody of the boy as investigators continue to review the circumstances and whether neglect or criminal charges could be filed.

“Nothing’s being ruled out,” Wickersham said.

The sheriff noted that the incident could have resulted in death or injury to the child if he had been hit by a vehicle while running in the road, especially in the early-morning darkness.

“It could’ve been a much more tragic situation,” he said.

Officials did not immediately reveal the name of the boy or his parents.